I’m a rising eighth-grader and I hope to go to Phillips Academy for high school. It would be great if someone could tell me my chances of getting in, or how to improve them.
Grades:
Math: A
ELA: A-
Science: A
Social Studies: A-
Mandarin:A
PE:A
After taking a mock SSAT for the first time (without any prior formal SSAT tutoring) I scored in the 80th percentile overall. (I’m hoping to get a final score in the 95th percentile by December.) I’ve been swimming competitively for almost 4 years. I’m not incredible for my age group, but I’m not bad either. I also play competitive school volleyball, but we haven’t been able to compete because of covid. (I’m hoping to get on the div 2 team this fall.) I also have an Instagram account where I raise awareness for current issues. In addition, I regularly volunteer at the local food bank. I don’t just want people to think I’m an overachiever without a personality, but someone with passion, drive, and empathy. I’m Korean-American living in Hong Kong. I don’t have any legacy or connections, and I won’t be needing financial aid.
Any input or suggestions are greatly appreciated!!!
I also forgot to mention that I am a student ambassador which is a leadership role where you talk to prospective families, organize school-wide events, etc.
You seem like a great student for PA. Your activities present you as a leadership type student, which is sought by admissions. Definitely being a competitive athlete making the D2 team would be impressive, and 4 years of swimming shows commitment which they like. Be sure to clearly state where your passions lie to the admissions office or your interviewer. However there are many, many others who match a profile like you. I am merely a student myself, but I think you have just as good a chance as any other well qualified student. To further boost your chances, write excellent essays, and communicate with a coach at PA, they might very well want to advocate for you!
I must warn you however, that this past admissions cycle PA has been overenrolled in their freshmen class. They will need to compensate by accepting even fewer this year. There is a high chance they will waitlist many fine candidates like you. As stated by the website, they are test optional again so it seems the high number of applicants will stay. (However I do not think this poses a threat to you as you expect to submit a high score)
If you are looking for opportunities PA offers, I urge that you look at other schools such as Choate or Hotchkiss who offer a lot of what PA also offers. Being an international student also places high risk in applying to only PA.
Best of luck to you this cycle🙂
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Hotchkiss’ admit rate this past cycle was something like 13%. Not exactly a sure thing for anyone.
OP, you are a fantastic candidate. But please keep in mind most kids applying to Andover (or Hotchkiss or Choate) are also fantastic. Look at the admit rates – it’s a long shot for everybody. So, what are your chances? Low!! Because everyone’s chances are low.
That’s not to say don’t give it your best shot – do! But manage your expectations. And if you want to make sure you go to boarding school next year, apply to more schools, including some with much higher acceptance rates.
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Without an actual SSAT score, it is very difficult to assess your chances of admission to almost any prep boarding school.
I forgot to mention that I’m not just applying to Andover.
Where else are you applying to?
I’m applying to The Webb Schools, Choate, Exeter, Groton, Westminster, NMH, Lawrenceville, Peddie, and probably other safety schools.
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I’m glad you are deciding to apply to some higher admit schools. I think that is a great idea.
I like your idea of applying to other safety schools.
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